Indian Government Expresses Concern Over Ongoing Conflict in Iran and Gulf Region
Government's Response to Regional Tensions
On Tuesday, the Indian government expressed significant concern regarding the escalating conflict in Iran and the Gulf area, noting that it has led to the deaths of some Indian nationals, with others still unaccounted for.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that as a neighboring country with vital interests in the region's security, these developments are a source of great anxiety. This marks the second official statement from the ministry since the conflict erupted on Saturday.
In its earlier communication, the foreign ministry urged all parties involved to exercise restraint, avoid further escalation, and prioritize the safety of civilians amidst the hostilities.
Highlighting that approximately ten million Indians reside and work in the Gulf region, the ministry emphasized that their safety is of utmost importance.
Additionally, it raised concerns about the potential repercussions on trade routes and energy supply chains, firmly opposing any attacks on merchant vessels.
The ministry confirmed that the recent violence has resulted in fatalities among Indian nationals, while others remain missing following assaults on ships.
"India strongly reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy," the ministry stated, advocating for a swift resolution to the conflict.
Furthermore, Indian embassies and consulates in the affected regions are maintaining close communication with Indian citizens and community organizations, providing regular updates and assistance to those stranded.
On Monday, the Directorate General of Shipping reported that three Indian seafarers lost their lives and one was injured during the conflict while working on foreign-flagged vessels.
While the department did not disclose further details, it clarified that no casualties, detentions, or hostile actions have been reported involving Indian-flagged ships.
One Indian mariner was confirmed dead on Monday aboard a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, following an attack by a drone boat carrying explosives.
Another incident occurred the previous day when a Palau-flagged oil tanker was targeted off the coast of Oman, resulting in injuries to four crew members. Of the 20 crew members, 15 were Indians, while the rest were Iranians. All affected personnel were evacuated, as reported by the Oman Maritime Security Centre.
The conflict commenced on Saturday after Israel and the US initiated a joint operation against the Iranian regime, claiming its actions posed an existential threat to Israel. Tel Aviv has asserted that Iran is closer than ever to acquiring a nuclear weapon, which could disrupt the regional security landscape.
Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear ambitions are solely for civilian purposes.
The ongoing assaults have heightened tensions among the three nations regarding Tehran's nuclear program, with Washington acting as a guarantor of Israel's security.
In retaliation, Iran has targeted not only Israel and US military installations in the area but also various ships.
On Monday, Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz was effectively 'closed' to shipping traffic, threatening to set ablaze any vessel attempting to navigate through the crucial waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital link between the Gulf and the Arabian Sea.